Spring Unit 2: Jesus Shows His Love

Spring Unit 2 Weeks of: February 7 - February 21 Bible Focus: Jesus Shows His Love Bible Verse: “This is my commandment: that you love each other in the same way I have loved you.” John 15:12 Bottom Line: Jesus loves and cares for me every day.

Unit Goals: Children will learn... • God’s Son, Jesus, loved everyone and wanted everyone to know that God made them and loves them. • Jesus showed love to God by praying to God, worshipping God, teaching others about God and His Word, and obeying God. • Jesus showed love to others by being a good friend, being kind, and being a good helper to everyone. • We can show love for God and others the same ways that Jesus did. • We can thank Jesus for His love and tell others that He loves them, too.

Sunday Bible Story Music Unit Bible Verse Song: Woman at the Well “Love each Other” Feb. 7 John 4:3-42

Feb. 14 Other Suggested Songs: • Jesus Said Jesus Loves Children • I Know Jesus Loves You and Me Jesus Loves Matthew 19:13-15 • God Wants us to Love One You Parties Another • Jesus Loves Me, Me, Me • Jesus Loves the Little Children • We Can Praise Jesus • I Want to Be Like Jesus Jesus Loves Zacchaeus Feb. 21 • Jesus I Will Follow Luke 19:1-10 • Yes! Jesus Loves Me • Oh, How I Love Jesus

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Woman at the Well FebruaryLesson 22 7

Bible Story John 4:3-42 Spring Unit 2 Bible Verse: “This is my commandment:God’s Word that you love each Teacher Challenge other“I in will the be same glad way and I have rejoice loved in you.”your Johnlove.” 15:12 When the Samaritan woman came to the well, it had WeeklyPsalm Bible 31:7 Verse: been hours since the other village women had come. “I will be glad and rejoice in your love.” But noon was the safest time for this outcast, a known God’sPsalm Word 31:7 and Me sinner, to come. A Samaritan, she was also despised by JesusGod’s knows Word all & about Me (Bottomme and loves Line): me. self-respecting Jews! Jesus loves and cares for me every day. Jesus not only talked with this despised woman but also showed His love for her and revealed Himself more fully than He had ever done to any other person! It did not matter to Jesus that she was female, a half-breed or a socially outcast sinner. Jesus let it be known that this measure of her value was not God’s. His grace extends to everyone who will receive it. ¯ When have you felt like an outsider? ¯ What did Jesus do to show you love? To heal and restore you? Take time to remember how great a thing the Lord has done for you and in you. As you teach, reflect the joy of the redeemed Samaritan woman to your children. It is not only her story—it is the story we all tell!

Teacher’s Planning •1. Choose Choose which which centers centers you will you provide and the orderwill providein which andchildren the orderwill participate in them.in Plan which you childrenwill lead eachwill par-center. ticipate in them. For tips • All supplieson schedule will be planning, provided seefor activities markedpage with 9. a star. If you would like to2. lead Plan the who activities will lead labeled each cen- with a clock, pleaseter, gather making the neededsure to havesupplies one from your homeadult or the for preschool approximately resource every room. six children. For staffing tips • As youand teach ideas, this see lesson page 12.and interact with the children, please be intentional about reinforcing the Monthly Bible Verse (John 15:12), the Monthly Bottom Line (Jesus loves and cares for me every day), and the Unit Goals listed on the Spring Unit 2 Overview Sheet.

Taken from Gospel Light’s Growing with God, Lesson 22, pages 201-207 2 © 2010 Gospel Light. Permission to photocopy granted to original purchaser only. Growing with God Leader’s Guide • 201 Lesson22:LKT 4/14/10 9:25 AM Page 203

Play to Learn FebruaryLesson 22 7 Art Center: Portrait of Me Spring Unit 2 Bible Verse: “This is my commandment:God’s Word that you love each Collect other“I in will the besame glad way and I have rejoice loved in you.” your Johnlove.” 15:12 Bible, white paper, scissors, markers or crayons, WeeklyPsalm Bible 31:7 Verse: construction paper in a variety of colors, glue, bul- “I will be glad and rejoice in your love.” letin board border strips, collage materials (foam God’sPsalm Word 31:7 and Me shapes, stickers, etc.). JesusGod’s knows Word all & about Me (Bottomme and loves Line): me. Jesus loves and cares for me every day. Prepare Cut white paper to measure 6x9 inches (15x22.5 cm).

Do 1. Give each child a sheet of white paper. Children use markers or crayons to draw picture of themselves on paper. Children then glue portrait onto construction paper and glue four border strips around portrait to form a frame. 2. Print “Jesus knows and loves (Michael)” on top frame of each child’s portrait. Children glue collage materials to frames for decorations.

Talk About ¯ The Bible says, “I will be glad and rejoice in your love.” We can be glad because Jesus loves us! Let’s make pictures that remind us that Jesus loves and knows all about us. ¯ Seth, you have brown hair. Who else in our class has brown hair? That’s right, Devin has brown hair! Jesus knows you have brown hair. Jesus loves you! ¯ Isabella, what is your favorite food? I like apples, too! Jesus knows that you like apples. Jesus knows everything about you! ¯ Jesus knows all about us. Jesus loves us just the way we are. Owen, what are some ways you can show Jesus that you’re glad He loves you? (Pray and tell Jesus thanks. Sing to Jesus.)

For Younger Children Instead of drawing portraits, children glue border strips around construction paper and decorate using collage materials. Send frames home with instructions for parents to place a photo of their child in the frame.

For Older Children Provide several handheld mirrors for children to look at while drawing their portraits.

Play to Learn FebruaryLesson 22 7 Construction Center: Favorite Places Spring Unit 2 Bible Verse: “This is my commandment:God’s Word that you love each Collect other“I in will the be same glad way and I have rejoice loved in you.”your Johnlove.” 15:12 Bible, blocks. Psalm 31:7 Weekly Bible Verse: “I will be glad and rejoice in your love.” Do God’sPsalm Word 31:7 and Me Children use blocks to build some of the places JesusGod’s knows Word all & about Me (Bottomme and loves Line): me. where they like to go (store, church, park, etc.). Jesus loves and cares for me every day.

Talk About ¯ In today’s Bible story, Jesus and His friends went on a long, long walk. They walked to a town. Let’s make some of the places we like to go. ¯ Mia, tell me about the place you are building. What kind of store are you building? A toy store! Who takes you to the toy store? Why do you like going to the toy store? ¯ Sam, here is a long block for the library you’re building. What do you like about going to the library? Jesus knows you like to look at books. Jesus knows all about you and He loves you! ¯ The Bible says, “I will be glad and rejoice in your love.” I’m glad that Jesus loves us. Jesus loves and knows all of us. ¯ Pray briefly, Dear Jesus, thank You for loving us. I’m glad that You know all about us and love us.

For Younger Children Younger children may have difficulty building specific places. Provide a bucket or basket for children to use in block play. Children will be happy simply placing blocks in bucket or basket, carrying them around and then taking blocks out of the bucket or basket again. Talk with children about places they go, using the conversation above.

For Older Children After building places they like to go, older children play a stacking game. Each child places one block on top of another, forming a tower. As each block is placed, the child tells one thing about him- or herself. My name is Sydney. I like to swim. My dog’s name is Buster.

Puzzle Center: Give each child a Bible puzzle worksheet. Provide pencils, crayons, or marker. As the children complete the puzzles and color pages, use the conversation suggestions on the page. Remind the children that a copy of today’s Bible verse and Bible story is on the back of the sheet so they can 204 • © 2010 Gospelshare Light. with Permissiontheir families to photocopy when they granted go tohome. original purchaser only. Growing with God Leader’s Guide 4 Lesson22:LKT 4/14/10 9:25 AM Page 204 Lesson22:LKT 4/14/10 9:25 AM Page 206

Play to Learn Lesson 22 Listen to Learn FebruaryLesson 22 7 Construction Center: John 4:3-42 Collect Favorite Places Bible, Bible Story 34 pictures from God’s Story for Spring Unit 2 Bible Verse: God’s Word Me Poster Pack #2, Preschool Music #2 DVD or CD “This is my commandment:God’s Word that you love each Collect “I will be glad and rejoice in your love.” and player, rhythm instruments. other“I in will the besame glad way and I have rejoice loved in you.”your Johnlove.” 15:12 Bible, blocks. Psalm 31:7 Psalm 31:7 Weekly Bible Verse: Greet Each Other “I will be glad and rejoice in your love.” Do God’s Word and Me Children stand in a circle. Did you have cereal God’sPsalm Word 31:7 and Me Jesus knows all about me and loves me. Children use blocks to build some of the places for breakfast? Children who can answer yes JesusGod’s knows Word all & about Me (Bottomme and loves Line): me. where they like to go (store, church, park, etc.). to your question, clap hands. Repeat with other Jesus loves and cares for me every day. questions, varying the response for each question Talk About (wave, stomp foot, jump, turn around, etc.). Do you ¯ In today’s Bible story, Jesus and His have a brother? Are you the oldest child in your family? Do you have a friends went on a long, long walk. They baby in your family? Are you wearing jeans today? Be sure every child has an walked to a town. Let’s make some of opportunity to move. Jesus knows all about us and loves us! the places we like to go. ¯ Mia, tell me about the place you are build- Tell the Story ing. What kind of store are you building? A Open your Bible to John 4. Tell the story using the pictured motions (keywords in bold) or show Bible toy store! Who takes you to the toy store? Story 34 pictures. Why do you like going to the toy store? Where are some of the places you go with your friends? Let’s listen to a story about when ¯ Sam, here is a long block for the library Jesus went to a town with His friends. you’re building. What do you like about Step, step, step. Jesus and His friends walked and walked along the hot, dusty road. going to the library? Jesus knows you like Soon they came to a well of cool water. A well is a deep hole in the ground. People to look at books. Jesus knows all about dip buckets in the well to get water. Jesus stopped by the well to rest. His friends you and He loves you! walked into a nearby town to buy food. ¯ The Bible says, “I will be glad and rejoice in your love.” I’m glad that Jesus loves us. Jesus While Jesus was resting, a woman came to the well. She was carrying a big jar. The loves and knows all of us. woman came to get water from the well. “Will you please give me a drink of water?” ¯ Pray briefly, Dear Jesus, thank You for loving us. I’m glad that You know all about us and Jesus asked her. love us. The woman was surprised when Jesus talked to her. She did not know who Jesus was. Then Jesus began to talk about God. The woman listened carefully. Jesus knew all about this woman. Jesus told her about things she had done. For Younger Children The woman wondered how this man knew all about her. She said, “I know that God Younger children may have difficulty building specific places. Provide a bucket or basket for children will send someone to help us understand what is true.” to use in block play. Children will be happy simply placing blocks in bucket or basket, carrying them around and then taking blocks out of the bucket or basket again. Talk with children about places they Jesus said, “I am the One that God promised to send.” go, using the conversation above. The woman was so happy to hear this good news! She left her water jar by the well. She hurried into town. For Older Children After building places they like to go, older children play a stacking game. Each child places one block on “Come!” she told the people. “Come see a man who knows all about me! Do you top of another, forming a tower. As each block is placed, the child tells one thing about him- or herself. think He was sent by God?” My name is Sydney. I like to swim. My dog’s name is Buster. Many people came with the woman. They wanted to see Jesus. They wanted to hear what He said. “Stay and tell us more,” the people said to Jesus. Jesus stayed in their town two days. Jesus told them about God’s love. Many people believed what Jesus said, and they loved Jesus, too.

204 • © 2010 Gospel Light. Permission to photocopy granted to original purchaser only. Growing with God Leader’s Guide 206 • © 2010 Gospel Light. Permission to photocopy granted to original purchaser only. Growing with God Leader’s Guide 5 Lesson22:LKT 4/14/10 9:25 AM Page 207

FebruaryLesson 22 7

Talk About the Story Who learned good news about Jesus in this story? (The woman. All the people in the town.) When we ask, Jesus forgives us for the wrong things we do. Jesus knows all about us and He loves us! What is a way we can show we are glad that Jesus loves us? (Sing songs about Jesus. Pray and give our thanks to Jesus. Tell others about Jesus.)

Sing to God Let’s sing a song about Jesus’ love. Lead chil- Option: With parents’ permission, video- dren in singing “Jesus Loves You and Me” (on DVD tape children as they sing songs and do the or track 8 on CD). Jesus knows all about us and motions. Show recording at the end of the loves us. What are some of the other things session when children are dismissed. this song tells that Jesus does for us? (Jesus takes care of us. Jesus listens when we pray.)

Hear and Say God’s Word Holding your Bible open to Psalm 31:7, say verse aloud. I’m glad Jesus knows all about me and loves me. Jesus knows and loves all of us. Lead children in saying the Bible verse together a few times. Ask all children with a certain characteristic to say the verse together (everyone wearing green, everyone with red hair, everyone wearing black shoes, etc.). Choose several categories and repeat the Bible verse several times.

Pray to God Pray the following prayer, inserting the name of one or more children into the prayer: Dear Jesus, we’re glad that You know all about us and love us. Thank You for loving Austin and Sabrina. Continue, naming each child in your class.

Praise to God I’m glad that Jesus knows all about me and loves me! One way to show I’m glad is to sing songs to Jesus. Let’s form a marching band as we sing to show our love for Jesus. Distribute rhythm instruments. Walk around the room and invite children to join you while you play “Welcome, Hello!” (track 1 on CD). If you have bells, come join in the march. If you have a tambourine, walk behind those with bells. Continue until all children are marching behind you. After a few moments, allow children to exchange instruments and repeat the invitations.

CD Note: All cd references included as part of the Bible curriculum refer to the Gospel Light Music CD 2. You may use this cd and activities in addition to the suggested Bible unit songs on your Dawson Preschool Worship Favorites and Growing with God cds.

Jesus Loves Children FebruaryLesson 24 14

Bible Story Matthew 19:13-15; Mark 10:13-16 Spring Unit 2 Bible Verse: “This is my commandment:God’s Word that you love each Teacher Challenge other in“Jesus the same said, way ‘Let I have the loved little you.” children John 15:12 Adults might not treat children with the same respect come to me.’” Matthew 19:14 Weekly Bible Verse: with which they treat other adults. But Jesus’ attitude “Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me.” toward children is radically different! God’sMatthew Word 19:14 and Me On at least one occasion, parents came to Jesus be- JesusGod’s loves Word and & cares Me for(Bottom me every Line): day. cause they wanted His blessing on their children. Jesus loves and cares for me every day. When the disciples turned these parents and children away, Jesus became angry. He was indignant about this wrong done to children. Jesus made it very clear to His disciples that children are as important and as worthy of respect and attention as any adult. ¯ What do you do to welcome and respect the children who come to your class? ¯ How can you show you value the most troubled child you know? How can you help that child learn he or she matters to Jesus? Jesus still has that same heart of love for every child! Ask Him to empower you to love them as He does so that they know Jesus loves and longs to bless each one of them.

Teacher’s Planning • 1.Choose Choose which which centers centers you will you provide and the orderwill providein which andchildren the willorder participate in them.in Plan which you childrenwill lead eachwill par-center. ticipate in them. For tips • All supplieson schedule will be planning, provided seefor activities markedpage with 9. a star. If you would like to2. lead Plan the who activities will lead labeled each cen-with a clock, pleaseter, gather making the neededsure to supplieshave one from your homeadult or the for preschool approximately resource every room. six children. For staffing tips • As youand teach ideas, this see lesson page and12. interact with the children, please be intentional about reinforcing the Monthly Bible Verse (John 15:12), the Monthly Bottom Line (Jesus loves and cares for me every day), and the Unit Goals listed on the Spring Unit 2 Overview Sheet.

Taken from Gospel Light’s Growing with God, Lesson 24, pages 217-223 7 © 2010 Gospel Light. Permission to photocopy granted to original purchaser only. Growing with God Leader’s Guide • 217 Lesson24:LKT 4/14/10 9:22 AM Page 218

Play to Learn FebruaryLesson 24 14 Active Game Center: Red Light, Green Light Spring Unit 2 Bible Verse: “This is my commandment:God’s Word that you love each Collect other in“Jesus the same said, way ‘Let I have the loved little you.” children John 15:12 Bible. come to me.’” Matthew 19:14 Weekly Bible Verse: “Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me.” Do God’sMatthew Word 19:14 and Me 1. Children play a game like Red Light, Green JesusGod’s loves Word and & cares Me for(Bottom me every Line): day. Light. Stand at a wall in your classroom. Chil- Jesus loves and cares for me every day. dren stand in a line at the opposite side of the playing area. Say “Come!” Children walk towards the wall. After a few moments, say “Stop!” Children freeze in place. 2. Continue saying “Come!” and “Stop!” until all the children reach the wall. Children return to start- ing place. Repeat as time and interest allow.

Talk About ¯ In today’s Bible story, Jesus told His friends to let children come to see Him. Jesus loves all the children! Let’s play a game where we are invited to “Come!” ¯ The Bible says, “Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me.’” Jesus said this because Jesus loves all children. ¯ Pray briefly, Dear Jesus, thank You for loving us. We love You, too!

For Younger Children Children stand in a circle. When you say “Come!” children walk in a circle. When you say “Stop!” children freeze in place.

For Older Children Let a child stand at the wall with a sheet of red and a sheet of green paper. Child shows appropriate pa- pers instead of saying “Stop” and “Go.”

Play to Learn Lesson 24 Play to Learn FebruaryLesson 24 14 Active Game Center: Art Center: Red Light, Green Light Heart Art Spring Unit 2 Bible Verse: God’s Word “This is my commandment:God’s Word that you love each Collect “Jesus said, ‘Let the little children Collect other in“Jesus the same said, way ‘Let I have the loved little you.”children John 15:12 Bible. come to me.’” Matthew 19:14 Bible, construction paper, marker, pink and red come to me.’” Matthew 19:14 Weekly Bible Verse: tissue paper, scissors, glue; optional—Lesson 24 “Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me.” Heart Art Pattern from Growing with God CD-ROM, God’s Word and Me God’sMatthew Word 19:14 and Me Do card stock. 1. Children play a game like Red Light, Green Jesus loves and cares for me every day. JesusGod’s loves Word and & cares Me for(Bottom me every Line): day. Light. Stand at a wall in your classroom. Chil- Jesus loves and cares for me every day. dren stand in a line at the opposite side of the Prepare playing area. Say “Come!” Children walk towards Print “Jesus loves me” on sheets of construction the wall. After a few moments, say “Stop!” Children freeze in place. paper, one for each child. Cut tissue paper into a variety of shapes and sizes. (Optional: Copy Heart 2. Continue saying “Come!” and “Stop!” until all the children reach the wall. Children return to start- Art Pattern onto card stock and cut out to use as ing place. Repeat as time and interest allow. a template.) Special “Jesus Loves You” Craft” Talk About ¯ Do In today’s Bible story, Jesus told His Children glue pieces of tissue paper on construction paper, without covering up the words “Jesus loves friends to let children come to see Him. me.” Teacher or helper cuts the construction paper into a heart shape. (Optional: Use the Heart Art Jesus loves all the children! Let’s play a Pattern as a template.) game where we are invited to “Come!” ¯ The Bible says, “Jesus said, ‘Let the little Talk About children come to me.’” Jesus said this be- ¯ In today’s Bible story, Jesus told His friends to let cause Jesus loves all children. children come to see Him. Jesus loves and cares for ¯ Pray briefly, Dear Jesus, thank You for all the children in the world! Let’s make heart pic- loving us. We love You, too! tures to remind us of Jesus’ love. ¯ Ian, thank you for handing Julian the scissors. Being kind to others is a way to show we love Jesus! For Younger Children ¯ We say “Jesus loves me” to remind us of Jesus’ love. Children stand in a circle. When you say “Come!” children walk in a circle. When you say “Stop!” children Pray briefly, Dear Jesus, thank You for loving all the freeze in place. children in the world! ¯ The Bible says, “Jesus said, ‘Let the little children For Older Children come to me.’” Jesus wanted to see the children be- Let a child stand at the wall with a sheet of red and a sheet of green paper. Child shows appropriate pa- cause He loves all children! Jesus loves and cares pers instead of saying “Stop” and “Go.” for us each day.

For Younger Children Instead of using tissue paper, cut heart shapes from construction paper. Children glue heart shapes to decorate a sheet of construction paper.

For Older Children Children use heart-shaped cookie cutters to trace hearts onto construction paper, cut out hearts and use hearts to make designs on their sheets of construction paper.

218 • © 2010 Gospel Light. Permission to photocopy granted to original purchaser only. Growing with God Leader’s Guide © 2010 Gospel Light. Permission to photocopy granted to original purchaser only. Growing with God Leader’s Guide • 219 9 Lesson24:LKT 4/14/10 9:22 AM Page 221

Play to Learn FebruaryLesson 24 14 Dramatic Play Center: Getting Ready Spring Unit 2 Bible Verse: “This is my commandment:God’s Word that you love each Collect other in“Jesus the same said, way ‘Let I have the loved little you.”children John 15:12 Bible, dress-up items (dresses, shirts, hats, purses, come to me.’” Matthew 19:14 Weekly Bible Verse: etc.), toy food, toy dishes. “Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me.” God’sMatthew Word 19:14 and Me Do JesusGod’s loves Word and & cares Me for(Bottom me every Line): day. Children pretend to be a family and act out getting Jesus loves and cares for me every day. ready to go to church (get dressed and eat breakfast, ride in car, etc.).

Talk About ¯ In today’s Bible story, many parents were excited to bring their children to see Jesus. Today, your moms and dads brought you to church so that you could learn about Jesus’ love! Let’s pretend to be a family getting ready to go to church. ¯ Makayla, what do you usually eat for breakfast before going to church? What are some things we do at church to learn about Jesus’ love? (Sing songs and hear Bible stories about Jesus. Hear and say Bible verses.) ¯ The Bible says, “Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me.’” Jesus wanted everyone to know that He loves children. Jesus loves and cares for each of you every day.

For Younger Children Provide several mirrors so children can look at themselves in the mirror.

For Older Children Provide Bible-times costumes instead of modern clothing. Older children act out the story events as you briefly retell the story. Expect to retell the story several times as children come and go from the Dramatic Play Center.

Listen to Learn FebruaryLesson 24 14 Matthew 19:13-15; Mark 10:13-16 Collect Bible, Bible Story 40 pictures from God’s Story for Me Spring Unit 2 Bible Verse: Poster Pack #2, Preschool Music #2 CD and player, 10 “This is my commandment:God’s Word that you love each items that show Jesus’ care for us (toy food, chil- other in“Jesus the same said, way ‘Let I have the loved little you.” children John 15:12 dren’s or doll clothing, dollhouse furniture, plastic come to me.’” Matthew 19:14 Weekly Bible Verse: or paper cup, bottle of water or pitcher, etc.). “Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me.” God’sMatthew Word 19:14 and Me Greet Each Other JesusGod’s loves Word and & cares Me for(Bottom me every Line): day. Children stand in a circle. Sing these words to the Jesus loves and cares for me every day. tune of “The Famer in the Dell,” using names of children. Clap as you sing. Who is here today? Who is here today? Let’s all clap our hands and see who is here today. Audrey’s here today. Chase is here today. Autumn, Jeff and Xavier, they’re all here today. Each child sits down as you sing his or her name. Repeat song until all children have been named and are seated.

Tell the Story Open your Bible to Matthew 19. Tell the story using the pictured motions (keywords in bold) or show Bible Story 40 pictures. What do you do to get ready to visit a friend? Let’s listen to hear what some people did before they went to see Jesus. One day, some parents had heard that Jesus was coming. They wanted their children to meet Jesus! So they called their children. They probably washed the children’s faces. They combed the children’s hair. The mothers probably made sure their children were wearing clean clothes. Then off the families went toward the place where Jesus was. As these families walked closer, they could see that Jesus was busy. He was talking to some grown-ups. But those mothers and fathers wanted their children to meet Jesus! They probably took their children’s hands. They went in and out and around the crowd of people. Soon they were close to Jesus. They must have been happy and excited! But just then, some of Jesus’ friends stopped the families. “Stand back!” they said. “Jesus is too busy to see children.” The children and their mothers and fathers must have felt so sad! They turned to walk away. But wait! They heard Jesus say something. “Let the children come to Me!” Jesus said. “Do not send the children away. I love children. I want to see them!” Jesus had not wanted His friends to send the children away at all!

FebruaryLesson 24 14

Jesus’ friends must have felt a little silly. They were surprised that Jesus cared so much about children. Jesus thought that children were just as important as grown-ups. So the children came to Jesus. Some children probably ran to hug him. Some children may have stood shyly near Him. A few probably climbed right up onto His lap. Jesus put His arms around them. He prayed for each child. The children must have felt very happy! The children knew that Jesus loved them.

Talk About the Story How did Jesus show that He loves children? (He told His helpers to let the children come to Him.) Every day, Jesus loves us and cares for us. One way Jesus shows His love is by giving us people to care for us. What are some other ways Jesus shows love for us? (Listens when we pray. Helps us do good things.)

Sing to God Let’s sing a song about the people Jesus loves. Lead children in singing “Jesus Loves You and Me” (on DVD or track 8 on CD). Every day, Jesus loves and cares for you and me—everyone!

Hear and Say God’s Word Holding your Bible open to Matthew 19:14, say verse aloud. Jesus wanted the children to come to Him to show that He loves children. Jesus loves and cares for each one of us. Lead children in saying the Bible verse in the following manner: When children say the words “Jesus said,” they clap their hands on each syllable of the words. When children say the words “Let the little children,” they pat their thighs on each syllable of the words. Finally, when children say the words “come to me,” they stomp a foot on each word. Repeat as time allows.

Pray to God Let’s thank God for His love. Repeat the following prayer several times, each time allowing two or three volunteers to name someone he or Option: As part of the prayer activity, ask she knows: Dear God, thank You for loving the children to name ways that Jesus cares Jason, Ariana and Sara’s moms. Repeat as for us. Volunteers then choose one of the needed and then close the prayer by saying, things mentioned and pray aloud to Jesus. Thank You, God, for loving everyone! We love You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Praise to God Children sit in a circle. In the center of the circle, place five items that show Jesus’ care (toy food, children’s or doll clothing, dollhouse furniture, plastic or paper cup, bottle of water or pitcher, etc.). Children close their eyes while you remove one object. Children identify the missing object. Repeat, increasing the number of items as children become familiar with the game.

Jesus Loves FebruaryLesson 25 21 Zacchaeus

Bible Story Spring Unit 2 Bible Verse: Luke 19:1-10 “This is my commandment:God’s Word that you love each other in the“You same are way kind I have and loved forgiving, you.” John 15:12 O Lord.” (See Psalm 86:5.) Weekly Bible Verse: Teacher Challenge “You are kind and forgiving, O Lord.” Zacchaeus probably wasn’t religious; being the chief God’sPsalm Word 86:5 and Me tax collector for the city of Jericho (and cheating its God’sJesus Word loves & meMe and (Bottom forgives Line): taxpayers) likely took up most of his time and kept Jesus lovesme and when cares I do for wrong. me every day. him in a category all by himself! But when Jesus’ love surprised Zacchaeus, he was changed completely! The power of Jesus’ surprising love picked Zacchaeus out of the crowd by name. It astounded the crowd as He invited Himself to the home of the one man in town NO ONE wanted to visit! Jesus said nothing about Zacchaeus’ sin. His loving acceptance brought such a change to Zacchaeus’ heart that repentance followed! ¯ When has Jesus stopped you to surprise you with His amazing love? ¯ What’s a way to show that same gracious love to those you know regardless of others’ opinions? It’s easy to feel unloved and unworthy of Jesus because of things we’ve done or things we haven’t done. But let Him stop you with His love and forgiveness! Then freely live out His loving acceptance and surprising love to the little ones you teach!

Taken from Gospel Light’s Growing with God, Lesson 25, pages 225-231 13 © 2010 Gospel Light. Permission to photocopy granted to original purchaser only. Growing with God Leader’s Guide • 225 Lesson25:LKT 4/14/10 9:20 AM Page 226

Play to Learn FebruaryLesson 25 21 Active Game Center: Circle Toss Spring Unit 2 Bible Verse: “This is my commandment:God’s Word that you love each Collect other in the“You same are way kind I have and loved forgiving, you.” John 15:12 Bible, beanbag. O Lord.” (See Psalm 86:5.) Weekly Bible Verse: “You are kind and forgiving, O Lord.” Do God’sPsalm Word 86:5 and Me 1. Children sit in a circle. Say, “Jesus loves God’sJesus Word loves & meMe and (Bottom forgives Line): (Evan).” Toss the beanbag to Evan. Evan Jesus lovesme and when cares I do for wrong. me every day. then says “Jesus loves (another child’s name)” and tosses beanbag to that child. 2. Continue until all children have been named.

Talk About ¯ The Bible says, “You are kind and forgiving, O Lord.” “Lord” is another name for Jesus. Jesus loves us and when we ask, He forgives us for the wrong things we do. Let’s play a game that will help us remember Jesus’ love. ¯ Alexandra, has anyone ever been unkind to you? Sometimes it’s hard to be forgiving when people are unkind. But Jesus always forgives us when we do wrong things. ¯ Pray briefly, Dear Jesus, thank You for loving us. Thank You for forgiving us when we do wrong things. We love You.

For Younger Children Toss beanbag to child, who then tosses beanbag back to you. Continue in this way until you have tossed beanbag to all children.

For Older Children After each round, change the phrase children say, incorporating words from the Bible verse (“Jesus is kind to . . . ,” “Jesus forgives . . . ,” etc.).

Play to Learn FebruaryLesson 25 21 Construction Center: Road to Jericho Spring Unit 2 Bible Verse: “This is my commandment:God’s Word that you love each Collect other in the“You same are way kind I have and loved forgiving, you.” John 15:12 Bible, blocks, small leafy branch, play dough, O Lord.” (See Psalm 86:5.) toy people. Weekly Bible Verse: “You are kind and forgiving, O Lord.” God’sPsalm Word 86:5 and Me Jesus loves me and forgives Do God’s Word & Me (Bottom Line): 1. Children use blocks to outline a long road. Jesus lovesme and when cares I do for wrong. me every day. Children place end of branch in a lump of play dough and place next to road. 2. Children use toy people to act out the Bible story. (Be prepared to retell the Bible story several times as children come and go from the Construction Center.)

Talk About ¯ In our Bible story today, Jesus came walking down the road into Jericho. There were many people wanting to see Jesus. Zacchaeus was too short to see Jesus, so he climbed a tree. Zacchaeus had done wrong things. But Jesus wanted to come to his house anyway. Jesus was kind and forgave Zacchaeus. Let’s build the road that Jesus walked along. ¯ Jesus was kind to Zacchaeus. We can be kind to others, too. Savannah, Jack needs a long block. What can you do to be kind to Jack? You can pass Jack some blocks! ¯ The Bible says, “You are kind and forgiving, O Lord.” “Lord” is another name for Jesus. Jesus will forgive us when we do unkind things. All we have to do is be sorry and ask Him to forgive us. ¯ Pray briefly, Dear Jesus, we’re sorry for the unkind things we do. Please forgive us.

For Younger Children Children use blocks to build constructions of their own choice. For young children, joy comes from the process of arranging the blocks and not in the quality of the finished product. Use conversation ideas above to link children’s activity to being kind and loving.

For Older Children Provide cardboard boxes and empty cereal boxes. Children use boxes to build the town of Jericho.

Play to Learn FebruaryLesson 25 21 Dramatic Play Center: Money Matters Spring Unit 2 Bible Verse: “This is my commandment:God’s Word that you love each Collect other in the“You same are way kind I have and loved forgiving, you.” John 15:12 Bible, toy money, empty grocery containers and O Lord.” (See Psalm 86:5.) boxes, shopping bags; optional—Lesson 25 Money Weekly Bible Verse: “You are kind and forgiving, O Lord.” Matters Patterns from Growing with God CD-ROM, God’s Word and Me green card stock, scissors. Psalm 86:5 Jesus loves me and forgives God’s Word & Me (Bottom Line): Jesus lovesme and when cares I do for wrong. me every day. Prepare (Optional: Make several copies of Money Matters Patterns on green card stock and cut out.)

Do Children play with money, acting out situations when money would be used. Children can pretend to be moms or dads giving children an allowance. Other children can set up a store, while others set up a bank where children can deposit and withdraw money.

Talk About ¯ In today’s Bible story, a man named Zac- chaeus had a LOT of money. Zacchaeus had done wrong by taking this money from other people. But Jesus was kind to Zacchaeus and forgave Zacchaeus for the wrong things he had done. Let’s use this pretend money to do good! ¯ Steven, you are buying a lot of groceries! How can you do good with all the food you bought? You can invite others to share in the meal! ¯ Jenny, how will you use your money? It is good to give money to our church to help people who are in need. ¯ The Bible says, “You are kind and forgiving, O Lord.” Jesus loves and forgives us when we do wrong. Pray briefly, Dear Jesus, thank You for loving us. We’re glad that when we ask, You forgive us for the wrong things we do.

For Younger Children Provide several money banks (that can be easily opened) or cardboard boxes with slits for children to put money into.

For Older Children Children use toy clothing and toy dishes to set up a yard sale. Provide stickers and markers for children to make price tags. Children take turns being sellers and buyers.

FebruaryLesson 25 21 Listen to Learn Luke 19:1-10

Collect Spring Unit 2 Bible Verse: Bible, Bible Story 42 pictures from God’s Story for “This is my commandment:God’s Word that you love each “You are kind and forgiving, Me Poster Pack #2, Preschool Music #2 DVD or CD other in the same way I have loved you.” John 15:12 O Lord.” (See Psalm 86:5.) and player, small leafy branch or classroom object. Weekly Bible Verse: “You are kind and forgiving, O Lord.” Greet Each Other God’sPsalm Word 86:5 and Me Jesus loves me and forgives Lead children in a game similar to Hot Potato. God’s Word & Me (Bottom Line): Children sit cross-legged in a circle and pass the Jesus lovesme andwhen cares I do for wrong. me every day. branch or classroom object around the circle while you play “Jesus Loves Me” (track 7 on CD). When you stop the music, the child with the branch or classroom object says, “Jesus loves me and you!” Repeat several times.

Tell the Story Open your Bible to Luke 19. Tell the story using the pictured motions (keywords in bold) or show Bible Story 42 pictures. What would you do if you had lots of money? Let’s listen to hear about a man who had lots of money. Zacchaeus had a LOT of money. He had a lot of money because he took money that did NOT belong to him! Zacchaeus had done many wrong things by taking this money. People did not like him because of all the times he had taken money that was not his. One day Jesus came to the town where Zacchaeus lived. I want to go see Jesus, he decided. Off he hurried to the road where Jesus was walking. A large crowd of people had come to see Jesus. So when Zacchaeus got there, he couldn’t see Jesus! Zacchaeus was very short. Even on tiptoe he could not see over the crowd of people. But then Zacchaeus had an idea. He ran to a big tree. And he climbed up-up-UP the tree. Now he could see over all the people! Zacchaeus could see Jesus. Jesus came closer and closer—until Jesus was right under the tree! Jesus stopped and looked up at Zacchaeus. “Come down, Zacchaeus,” said Jesus. “I want to stay at your house today.” Zacchaeus climbed down-down-down from that tree. He was surprised that Jesus talked to him! But Zacchaeus was very glad to have Jesus come to his house. Jesus loves me! Zacchaeus must have thought. He thought about the wrong things he had done. He thought about the money he had wrongly taken away from people. Zac- chaeus told Jesus he wanted to give back the money he had taken. And he wanted to give money to the poor people, too! Zacchaeus had learned to love Jesus. Jesus was not angry at him, even though Zacchaeus had done wrong things. Jesus was kind and forgiving to him.

FebruaryLesson 25 21

Talk About the Story What wrong thing did Zacchaeus do? (Zacchaeus had taken money that did not belong to him.) Jesus showed Zacchaeus that He loved him, even though Zacchaeus had done wrong things. Jesus loves us, too! Jesus will forgive us for the wrong things we do. When we feel sorry we did something wrong, what should we do? (Tell Jesus we are sorry. Ask Jesus to forgive us.) What will Jesus do? (Forgive us.)

Sing to God Let’s sing a song about Jesus. Lead children in singing song “Jesus Loves You and Me” (on DVD or track 8 on CD). This song tells us that Jesus listens when we pray. That means when we pray and ask Jesus to forgive us for the wrong things we do, Jesus is listening! Jesus loves us and forgives us when we ask Him to.

Hear and Say God’s Word Holding your Bible open to Psalm 86:5, say verse aloud. “Lord” is another name for Jesus. This Option: Vary the manner in which you and verse tells us that Jesus is kind and forgiv- the children speak (loudly, softly, whisper- ing. He will forgive us when we do wrong. ing, low, high, etc.). All we have to do is ask. Lead children in re- peating the verse by echoing phrases after you: “You are kind/and forgiving/O Lord.” Repeat several times.

Pray to God Dear God, sometimes we do wrong things. But we want to do what is right. Thank You for loving us always. Thank You for forgiving us when we are sorry for the wrong things we do. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Praise to God Stand in a circle with the children and say, I’m so glad that Jesus is kind and forgiving. I’m going to jump up and down! Children copy your motion. The child standing next to you says, I’m so glad that Jesus is kind and forgiving. I’m going to (wiggle my fingers). Continue going around the circle until each child has had a turn. (Younger children copy your motions instead of suggesting their own.)

ART: Zacchaeus in a Tree Craft Provided